Top Causes of Shoulder Discomfort

Difficulty lifting your arm or experiencing persistent shoulder discomfort can indicate issues like frozen shoulder, rotator cuff injuries, or dislocated shoulders. Approximately 67% of individuals will face shoulder pain at some point during their lives. The shoulder joint is highly mobile, composed of bones supported by muscles, tendons, and ligaments, enabling movements like lifting, throwing, or reaching behind.

Considering daily activities involve joint use, wear and tear can lead to pain. Common causes include rotator cuff tendinitis, tears, frozen shoulder, bursitis, and other conditions such as labral tears or osteoarthritis. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, including physiotherapy, ice/heat therapy, and medications, are crucial for recovery.

Shoulder issues often result from repetitive motion or injury. Rotator cuff tendinitis involves inflammation of tendons supporting shoulder movement, leading to pain that worsens over time. Tears in these tendons can occur instantly after trauma or gradually with repetitive use, causing significant discomfort. Frozen shoulder, characterized by stiffness and limited mobility, affects many middle-aged individuals, especially those with diabetes or thyroid conditions. Bursitis causes swelling and deep pain due to inflamed fluid sacs that reduce friction in shoulder joints.

Additional conditions like labral tears, impingement syndrome, or dislocation can also contribute to shoulder pain. Many ignore symptoms or opt home remedies, risking worsening conditions. Prompt medical attention and proper therapy are essential to prevent more severe issues and restore shoulder function efficiently.